PENANG’S artistic gymnastics team began the Sukma (Malaysia Games) 2022 on a high note after delivering a gold and a bronze at the National Sports Council (NSC) gymnasium in Bukit Jalil today.
As the squad is expected to haul in some medals due to its past achievements, national gymnast Zarith Imaan Khalid did not disappoint the Penang supporters.
The 19-year-old topscored with a total of 49.30 points after a scintillating performance in four apparatuses – floor exercise, balance beam, uneven bar and vault.
She edged out two of her opponents from Kuala Lumpur (FT).
Zarith Imaan also bagged a bronze medal as the Penang team finished third overall. The other team members were Esther Teh Yi Ying, Julia Loke Chen Ni, Liam Jia Xuan, Marcia Teoh Yan Shan and Seow Hannah.
When met by Buletin Mutiara, Zarith Imaan was grinning from ear to ear after her fantastic performance.
“I am grateful to make a great comeback after sustaining Achilles tendon injuries, which ruled me out for this year’s SEA Games in Hanoi.
“After undergoing rehabilitation for a few months, I am so happy to come back with a gold medal in this individual’s event.
“I did not feel any pressure to deliver success, but I strive to do what I can for my team.
“Overall, it is a good comeback for me and I look forward to the next SEA Games in Cambodia next year,” said Zarith Imaan, who is now studying in A- Levels.
Zarith Imaan thanked her parents, coaches and teammates for supporting her.
Also present during the medal presentation ceremony were Malaysian Gymnastics Federation (MGF) president Datuk Tan Gin Soon and Penang Amateur Gymnastics Association vice-president Wong Chiew Lee.
Over at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil today, 22-year-old Pavithraa Devi Jayaindraan clinched a silver for Penang in the women’s javelin event.
Pavithraa’s best throw for the day was as far as 43.42m.
“This is my sixth Sukma and I am satisfied with my achievement. I aim to take part in the 2023 SEA Games in Cambodia and do well,” she said.
Meanwhile, the Penang contingent managed to win two bronze medals in karate, two silver medals in archery and a bronze medal in sepak takraw.
In total, Penang obtained a gold, three silver and three bronze medals in today’s events, bringing its medal tally to 8 gold, 6 silver and 12 bronze medals after four days of competition thus far.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad